An Upstate man was shocked this week to see a huge black bear wandering near his home.Zach Clardy told WYFF News 4 he saw and took photos of "what may be the largest back bear in the state." He said the wild encounter happened Thursday morning off Highway 11 in Landrum.When asked if he took any video of the mammoth animal, Clardy said, "Honestly, I was in such shock I almost didn’t think to (even) take pictures."Clardy said he sent the photos to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources to warn them that a giant bear was spotted in the area.When responding to the photos, Greg Lucas, with DNR, said, "It is indeed big!" He said he showed them to the bear experts he works with and is waiting to hear back about an estimate on weight and comparison to other bears in the state.Lucas also referred to some valuable information about bears, available on bearwise.org.The site says September is a time when bears "go into eating hyperdrive.""Bears enter hyperphagia in September and may look for food up to 20 hours a day," according to the site. "Berries, nuts and acorns are important fall bear foods. Bears can gain two to three pounds a day. Even bears that don’t hibernate eat as if they’re going to. Moms-to-be look for a good birthing den and nursery."The website offered six at-home "BearWise" basics:Never Feed Or Approach BearsIntentionally feeding bears or allowing them to find anything that smells or tastes like food teaches bears to approach homes and people looking for more.Secure Food, Garbage And RecyclingFood and food odors attract bears, so don’t reward them with easily available food, liquids or garbage. Remove Bird Feeders When Bears Are ActiveBirdseed and grains have lots of calories, so they’re very attractive to bears. Removing feeders is the best way to avoid creating conflicts with bears. Never Leave Pet Food OutdoorsFeed pets indoors when possible. If you must feed pets outside, feed in single portions and remove bowls afterward. Store pet food where bears can’t see or smell it.Clean & Store GrillsClean grills after each use and make sure that all grease, fat and food particles are removed. Store clean grills and smokers in a secure area that keeps bears out. Alert Neighbors To Bear ActivitySee bears in the area or evidence of bear activity? Tell your neighbors and share info on how to avoid bear conflicts.